KOTA KINABALU: Research is a vital part of drafting effective policies that can improve the livelihood of Sabahans, says state Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun.
He said Sabah needs to constantly up its game in view of growing global challenges that affect economic and social development.
"Another area we can focus on is improving and supporting the growth of local products.
"We need to improve their quality, marketability and branding to turn them into (major) economic drivers domestically and internationally," he said during a recent meeting with the Institute for Development Studies (IDS) Sabah.
The meeting also covered policy suggestions and research presentations by IDS Sabah in strengthening development plans, making them more systematic as well as high-impact.
Masidi, who is also Deputy Chief Minister II, said the state government hoped for greater strategic cooperation with IDS Sabah to draw up policies and plans that holistically benefit Sabahans.
IDS chief executive officer Datuk Dr Ramzah Dambul, who shared insights on ways to increase state revenue during the session, said diversifying resources, revenues, strategic asset management and exploring new sectors can help reduce dependency on traditional resources.
"This can help turn Sabah into a more competitive, sustainable and competent state," he said.
